onion

noun

on·​ion ˈən-yən 

plural onions

1

: a widely cultivated Asian herbaceous plant (Allium cepa) of the amaryllis family that has a pungent edible bulb and that is closely related to the garlic, chive, and leek

also : its bulb

2

: any of various usually ornamental alliums (such as Allium amplectens or A. caeruleum) related to the onion

oniony

ˈən-yə-nē 

adjective

an oniony flavor

oniony meatloaf

Examples of onion in a Sentence

The recipe calls for chopped onions.

He is growing onions in the garden this year.

The recipe calls for chopped onion.

Recent Examples on the Web

On a rimmed baking sheet, toss together the potatoes, onion, bell pepper, oil, oregano and 1 teaspoon each salt and pepper, then distribute in an even layer. —Christopher Kimball, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 June 2024

Add the carrots, celery and onion and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until soft. —Robin Miller, The Arizona Republic, 12 June 2024

From there, simply chop the cucumber and onion and add it to the bowl with the dressing. —Southern Living Test Kitchen, Southern Living, 5 June 2024

Pickled herring comes in lots of different flavors, like mustard, onion, garlic and dill, to suit your preferences. —Ashlyn Messier, Fox News, 5 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French oignon, from Latin union-, unio

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing onion

• Bermuda onion
• green onion
• onion dome
• onion ring
• pearl onion
• sea onion
• Spanish onion
• spring onion

Kids Definition

onion

noun

on·​ion ˈən-yən 

: a widely grown Asian herb related to the lilies and having edible bulbs that have a sharp odor and taste and are used as a vegetable and to season foods

also : its bulb